We finally know when Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen at the Magic Kingdom! The wildest ride in the wilderness will welcome guests back on May 3, 2026. The coaster has been closed since January 2025 for a complete track replacement and total refurbishment.
One bit of unexpected news is a height requirement change. When Big Thunder Mountain Railroad reopens, it’ll have a lower height requirement. Guests will have to be 38″ tall to ride, which is two inches shorter than the previous 40″ requirement. This change suggests the ride experience will be different than what we were used to. Will it still be the wildest ride in the wilderness?
The updated Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will have a few new features. Guests will travel through the Rainbow Caverns (and by its phosphorescent pools) when the coaster trains go underground. However, it’s unclear if Disney added the explosion effects on the third lift hill (like we’ve seen at Disneyland Park). Here’s hoping!
The reopening of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is just in time for the start of Disney World’s summer season. Check out everything else opening around Disney World this summer. The coaster reopening will also take some pressure off the other rides at the Magic Kingdom, and boost the value of the Lightning Lane Multi Pass for the park.
